Indonesian families in Singapore celebrated Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day with traditional games and cultural activities, fostering community bonds
THREE friends – Arvelia, Felicia, and Alexandra, once close friends and now mom-friends, turned a shared dream into reality by creating a community for their children to connect with other Indonesian-speaking peers. Despite their packed schedules, they were determined to bring their vision to life. On August 17, 2024, coinciding with Indonesia’s 79th Independence Day, they organised “Temu Main Yuk: 17an Agustus,” a celebration that resonated with Indonesian families living in Singapore.
The non-profit team, juggling work and family responsibilities, devoted their efforts to crafting a memorable day for the children. Blessed with perfect weather, the event featured traditional games reminiscent of those enjoyed during Independence Day celebrations in Indonesia.
The day kicked off with a storytelling session featuring the book “Krauk Krauk,” which humorously depicted a young boy’s quest to win a kerupuk-eating contest. The story brought laughter to both kids and adults, setting the tone for the activities that followed.
Children eagerly participated in traditional games, including kerupuk eating, chopstick-bottle challenges, and marble relays. The highlight of the day was a spirited tug-of-war among the dads, which added to the excitement and sense of community.
“We wanted to strengthen the bonds within the Indonesian community here in Singapore, and it was truly heartwarming to see such enthusiasm,” Arvelia shared.
She continued, “Indonesia just celebrated its birthday, and this event was our gift to the nation. It may be a small start, but we hope it will grow into something much bigger for the Indonesian community. None of this would have been possible without the support of the Indonesian Embassy and both local Indonesian and Singaporean brands.”
The event was a success, as evidenced by the children’s smiles and laughter. The nostalgic games not only entertained the young participants but also brought back cherished memories for the adults.
